Savannah Standard

The Education and Visitor Center at Oatland Island Wildlife Center has been dedicated to the memory of Tony Cope, a former teacher in the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System (SCCPSS). This dedication took place on May 15, 2023. The center might not exist without Cope's contributions.

Oatland Island's history dates back to the late eighteenth century when it was part of a cotton plantation owned by the McQueen family, who were featured in Eugenia Price's novel "Don Juan McQueen." In 1927, the Order of Railway Conductors purchased the island to establish a retirement home for its members. Despite opening in November 1927 with space for 66 residents, it closed in 1940 due to low occupancy.

The property changed hands several times before becoming an environmental education center. It was sold to the US Public Health Service in 1941 and later became a Technical Development Laboratory until 1973. That year, Tony Cope successfully petitioned for its use as an educational site. The federal government agreed under conditions that ensured its joint operation with SCCPSS for three decades before full transfer.

Since opening as Oatland Island Education Center in August 1974, the site has undergone various transformations. In 2004, ownership transferred entirely to SCCPSS, and it was renamed Oatland Island Wildlife Center in 2007. Renovations from 2009 led to expanded facilities including offices and a veterinary clinic by reopening in 2011.

On May 15th this year, friends and family unveiled a plaque honoring Tony Cope at the center.